question_answer 41)

Explain the fact that in aryl alkyl ethers (i) the alkoxy group activates the benzene ring towards electrophilic substitution. (ii) it directs the incoming substituents to ortho and para positions in benzene ring. Consider +R effect of the alkoxy group and more electron density at o-and p-positions.  

Answer:

In aryl alkyl ethers, +R effect of the alkoxy group increases the electron density in the benzene ring thereby activatingthe benzene ring towards electrophilic substitution reactions.     Electron density is more at o- and p-positions so o- and p-products aremainly formed during electrophilic substitution reactions. e.g.,